The Saudi Arabia global conference delegation, led by Dr Hisham bin Saad al-Jadhey, discusses drug safety, regulatory reforms, and emerging technologies at the International Conference in India

Saudi Arabia has taken centre stage this week at the 19th International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities (ICDRA) held in New Delhi, India. From October 14 to 18, drug regulators from across the globe are gathering to discuss pressing issues surrounding pharmaceutical oversight and the future of drug regulation. Hosted by the Indian government in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), this event serves as a crucial platform for cooperation and the exchange of regulatory practices to ensure the delivery of safe, quality-assured medicines worldwide.

The Saudi delegation, led by Dr. Hisham bin Saad Al-Jadhey, CEO of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), is actively participating in the discussions. Dr Al-Jadhey underscored the importance of international collaboration in advancing regulatory frameworks that not only enhance drug safety but also ensure the availability of effective treatments for global populations. In his opening remarks, he expressed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to achieving shared objectives of pharmaceutical excellence, especially in an era where emerging technologies are rapidly reshaping the industry.

A Global Initiative for Drug Regulation

The theme of this year’s ICDRA conference is “Smart Regulation: Delivering Quality-Assured Pharmaceuticals for All,” reflecting the global push towards modernising drug regulatory systems in response to fast-evolving pharmaceutical landscapes. This theme is particularly timely as countries worldwide strive to keep pace with breakthroughs in biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and digital health, all of which are poised to revolutionise healthcare.

India’s Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel, opened the event, setting the tone for what would be a series of high-level discussions on how to strengthen regulatory frameworks in light of these advancements. Patel emphasised the need for smarter, more agile regulation to ensure that the benefits of pharmaceutical innovations reach people in every corner of the world without compromising safety or quality.

Over the course of the five-day conference, participants are addressing a range of topics critical to the future of drug regulation. These include regulatory reforms that streamline approval processes, the ongoing challenge of drug safety monitoring, and strategies for overseeing emerging technologies such as personalised medicine, gene therapies, and advanced biologics. As the pharmaceutical industry becomes increasingly complex, regulators are tasked with finding the right balance between fostering innovation and protecting public health.

Saudi Arabia’s Role in Global Regulatory Collaboration

For Saudi Arabia, participating in this conference is more than a diplomatic gesture; it is part of the kingdom’s broader strategy to enhance its role in international health and safety initiatives. Dr Al-Jadhey highlighted the SFDA’s efforts to align with global best practices, stating that Saudi Arabia views international cooperation as essential to ensuring the safety and efficacy of medicines. This approach is aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, the kingdom’s ambitious reform programme aimed at diversifying its economy and improving the quality of life for its citizens.

Through initiatives like the ICDRA, Saudi Arabia is seeking to play a more influential role in shaping global health policies. By exchanging regulatory experiences with other countries, the kingdom hopes to implement forward-thinking practices that will not only benefit Saudi citizens but also contribute to the global health community. As part of its involvement, the SFDA has committed to fostering stronger relationships with regulatory bodies in other countries, thereby promoting the exchange of knowledge and expertise that can lead to improved health outcomes.

Looking Ahead: Building a Safer Pharmaceutical Future

As the conference draws to a close, the participants are expected to put forth a set of recommendations aimed at enhancing global cooperation in drug regulation. For Saudi Arabia, these recommendations will play a vital role in shaping the future of its pharmaceutical industry, particularly as it seeks to become a hub for medical innovation in the region.

Dr. Hisham bin Saad Al-Jadhey’s leadership at the conference signals Saudi Arabia’s strong commitment to improving drug safety not only within its own borders but also in the international community. By fostering collaboration and sharing regulatory expertise, the kingdom is positioning itself as a key player in the global effort to deliver safe, effective, and innovative medicines to patients around the world.

As global health challenges continue to evolve, conferences like the ICDRA provide a crucial platform for regulators to work together in shaping the future of medicine. For Saudi Arabia, this event marks another step forward in its journey towards becoming a leader in pharmaceutical regulation and healthcare innovation.